AN Appleton couple made their third visit in 10 years to Buckingham Palace for the Queen's garden party on June 11.

Arthur Gardner, aged 84, and wife Mary, aged 83, joined guests to honour The Not Forgotten Association.

The tri-service charity recognises members of the Army, Royal Navy and Royal Air Force.

But the couple's invitation to their third garden party at the Royal grounds came as a result of their services to the Fleet Air Arm Association, in particular the Manchester branch, which Arthur is chairman of.

Service personnel, both past and present attended, and the Appleton couple were greeted by Princess Anne, along with other influential figures.

"It was a wonderful day and it surpassed all the other times we have been here," said Mary.

"It was just great and we feel very privileged to have been asked to go again."

Arthur, who served in the Fleet Air Arm from 1948 to 1960, including a spell at HMS Blackcap in Stretton, also spoke of his 'pride' at being invited to the event.

In the glorious sunshine, the guests enjoyed a delicious afternoon tea, to the tune of a medley of popular show tunes played by the Royal Marines Band Service.